The 12th Man has been ubiquitous in the Seattle area for the past couple of weeks. People of all shapes and sizes in Seahawks jerseys, cars driving around with flapping window flags, and office buildings lit up in proud blue and green. Seahawks fans are known to be some of the most passionate fans in the NFL and this fervor is rampant this week in anticipation of the big game this weekend.

The city and Washington State, typically a contrast in political and social viewpoints, has come together around the local football team. This place is as united as I’ve ever seen it. During the past two years, I’ve seen friends who’ve never watched football become rabid Seahawks fans. It’s amazing how a winner attracts a following.

The 12s are everywhere

Unlike many past Super Bowls, the matchup between the Seahawks and the Patriots is truly a toss-up. The best defense against the best offense. A young, newbie QB versus a future Hall of Famer. That sounds familiar, doesn’t it? Hopefully, things turn out like they did last year in New Jersey. Realistically, the Seahawks will need to play a lot better than they did against the Packers to win this one. It’s going to be a close one, perhaps down to the final drive. This may be the Super Bowl “for the Ages” as Coach Carroll says. Let’s Re-Pete!